The Fine Line | INDIA HICKS

India Hicks is the ultimate example of a woman who defines her own legacy. As a designer, entrepreneur, author, and mother of five, she has forged a multi-faceted and unexpected path, choosing action over tradition. Born into a family of renown - daughter of decorator David Hicks and Lady Pamela Hicks, and granddaughter of the last Viceroy of India - India used her unique background as a springboard for bold life choices.

Her professional life is a testament to her creative versatility: India has authored four design books, modeled for brands like Ralph Lauren, and maintained a two-decade career in the design world. India's most powerful impact lies in her humanitarian work. Living in the Bahamas for the past 27 years India was in the position to partner with the disaster relief agency 'Global Empowerment Mission' as an on the ground force, in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian. In 2020 India was invited to join GEM as an Executive Board member and has subsequently been part of their team during the fall out from the Surfside Tower collapse, the Tornadoes in Alabama and most significantly accompanied the team to the Polish/Ukrainian border only a few weeks after the Russian invasion. India retuned more recently with GEM and went directly into Kyiv and other war torn cities assisting with aid deliveries and refugee relocations.

In this conversation for The Fine Line, India shares how involve her children in understanding her work and what she hopes they learn from it.

How has becoming a mother positively influenced your career?

It’s given everything more meaning. I think it’s healthy for my children to see their mother with a sense of purpose that exists beyond the school run. I want them to know I can be their anchor while still chasing storms of my own.

What’s something about motherhood that surprised you - in the best way?

That it doesn’t get easier as they grow older—but it does get deeper. Teenagers, young adults—they don’t need you any less, just differently. And the humor and chaos in a house full of teenagers? Completely underrated.

What advice do you have for working moms?

I try very hard not to give advice. No two lives are the same. But for me I believed in having something outside of motherhood that challenged me— a business, a creative passion, a sporting challenge. It keeps you grounded in yourself. And I think that matters.

How do you involve your kids in understanding your work, and what do you hope they learn from it?

I’ve taken them with me into refugee camps. They’ve helped unload aid boxes. They’ve watched me wrestle with Zoom calls, deadlines, difficult business partners, and launch collections against all odds I hope they understand that work isn’t always glamorous. That showing up—especially when it’s hard—matters. I was raised with the phrase “To whom much is given, much is expected.” That’s the thread I hope runs through our lives.

Who are a few women founders or women-owned businesses you’re excited about?

I’m endlessly inspired by women who build something from nothing. Daisy Knatchbull, Gregg Renfrew, the girls at Recess Pickleball, Liya Kebede at Lem Lem….Women who lead with soul and backbone. Women who can juggle ambition and kindness.

Has your definition of success changed since becoming a mother?

Entirely. There was a time when success meant press coverage or revenue or making the “right” lists. Now, success is everyone under one roof, even for a single supper. It’s hearing one of the kids laugh from the next room. Or seeing them care about something deeply—whether it’s politics or a friend in trouble. That’s when I exhale and think, Alright, maybe I’m getting something right.

In moments of chaos—five kids, multiple projects, public life—what’s your anchor?

Perspective. Knowing that I am astonishingly lucky. A walk with the dogs. A call with my mum. Sitting with someone in Ukraine who has lost everything—that humbles you immediately.

FOLLOW ALONG

Follow India’s incredible journey on her website and Instagram.

Follow Brigade Events and stay tuned for the next iteration of The Fine Line at @brigadeevents.

We’d be honored to include you — or a woman you admire — in this series. If you or someone you know has a story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at carly@ingoodcompanypr.com. Together, we can uplift, support, and redefine leadership for the next generation.

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